Bailey on AUS squad changes: Konstas in for McSweeney to challenge India

• Sam Konstas replaces Nathan McSweeney for final two BGT Tests
• Konstas scored twin hundreds in Sheffield Shield, century in practice match against India
• Bailey: "Looking for something to throw India off their lines and lengths"
• McSweeney dropped due to series performance, but faith remains
• Top-order struggle: None have scored over 100 runs
• No consideration of moving Khawaja from squad
• Bailey hopes for big performance from Konstas to allow team growth

19-year old Sam Konstas has been called up to replace Nathan McSweeney in Australia's squad for the final two Tests of the Border Gavaskar Trophy. Konstas' impressive performances, including twin hundreds in the Sheffield Shield and a century in a practice match against India, led to his selection as the team aims to challenge India with a different approach.

Chief Selector George Bailey expressed the need for a varied strategy, stating, "We'd like the ability to throw something different at India… Sam's method, his style, is different to Nathan's, different again to Beau's and Josh's." McSweeney's dismissal by Jasprit Bumrah in four out of six innings contributed to his removal from the squad, despite the Australian team's faith in his abilities.

Australia's top-order batters have struggled in the series, with Marnus Labuschagne (82) being the highest scorer. Usman Khawaja has scored only 63 runs, but there has been no discussion of moving him from the squad. Bailey emphasized the importance of senior players leading the way and the need for Marnus Labuschagne to focus on method and intent.

The team now places hope in Konstas' potential for a significant individual performance, which would contribute to both his and the team's growth.